Frequently asked questions when buying dance shoes
Unfortunately, each company has a slightly different sizing, differing sometimes even by a few mm. Usually with dance shoes, we choose the size we wear everyday or a smaller size (especially if we are between sizes, we wear “halves”). When measuring shoes with a heel, check that there is no space left between the heel and the heel of the shoe. If you decide on a model with an open back, it is worth trying on a smaller size as well. The foot looks very messy when we still have 1-2mm of shoe sticking out behind the heel. Moreover, in such situation, the heel will not be positioned under the heel and we will have the impression that it is running backwards all the time.
Also pay attention that the front of the shoe is not too wide. The dance shoe should be fitted and even slightly tight at first.
It is well known that our legs look much better on high heels. The highest heel regularly available at TangoStore is 9 cm (10 cm on request). If we usually walk in heels on and our feet are used to this height, we can confidently reach for them. The most commonly chosen height is 8 cm. If you like to dance at marathons or longer events, it’s worth getting one pair with a 7 cm heel, because after dancing for hours, you can change to lower heels and keep partying.
First of all, tango shoes should be comfortable. Most of the shoes in TangoStore have soft cushioning under the toes, the place where the foot works the most. As a result, our legs do not get tired quickly and we can dance longer. It is also worth, that the first pair is universal in color, then you can confidently wear them with any outfit.
TangoStore offers the Lolita model by Regina, which, in addition to a single strap on the front, also has 3 small straps on the inside of the foot, and the last one is on an elastic band. Thanks to the elastic end, it fits very nicely on the hallux, masking it and at the same time not pressing. This model is available on request in many color versions, with a heel of 6-7-8-9-10 cm. I definitely do not recommend a model that is strongly built up in the front, as they will pull the toes together which will further enlarge the hallux.
I would like to invite you to see and fitting the models in our home studio in Warsaw. The shoes can also be tried on during workshops and at tango marathons and festivals in many cities in Poland. I would appreciate it if you could contact me in advance by email (sklep@tangostore.pl) or phone (+48 510 740 032)
Remember that the shoes are made all in leather, which will still fit our foot, gently stretch. A dance shoe should NOT be immediately good in width, it should be minimally too tight so that it can adjust to our unique foot. It’s also a good idea to try on a size smaller than we wear every day.
It is worth remembering that tango shoes will be used mainly indoors (outdoor milongas are only seasonal), so they are not exposed to excessive moisture. This means, that they do not need to be impregnated, as in the case of shoes for everyday walking.
Leather soles, especially “elk” soles, tend to collect dust from the parquet floor, making them more slippery It’s a good idea to clean it from time to time with a wire brush, which is also available at TangoStore.
Satin and suede shoes should preferably be cleaned with soapy water and a soft sponge – this is much more effective than any sprays. Faced leather shoes are often made of bonded materials – it is worth getting a clear polish for them.
Leather shoes like to “breathe,” so don’t dance in the same pair of shoes every day, give the leather a rest.
